Call Us
8:00am - 17:00PM
Bloemfontein
About Bloemfontein
In the heartland of the picturesque country between Cape Town and Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, the City of Roses, represents a unique mix of a small-town atmosphere and the charm of the beautiful surroundings. Being the judicial capital, this city lives a life full of history and experience effortlessly. Bloemfontein Travel is easy to plan, and your accommodation options range from cute guest houses to luxurious hotels, which is perfect for Bloemfontein Tours and a South African holiday to remember.
Bloemfontein Tours & Safaris
We Think You’ll Love
Best time to visit
Discovering the Best Time to Visit Bloemfontein means aiming for the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). During these months, the city basks in milder weather, making it perfect for Bloemfontein Tours and exploring the great outdoors. While summers in Bloemfontein can get quite warm, they're often balanced out by cool, refreshing thunderstorms, adding a unique charm to Bloemfontein Travel experiences.
Wildlife
Bloemfontein surprises visitors with its vibrant wildlife, offering a glimpse into the natural world amidst its cityscape. At the heart of the city lies the Franklin Game Reserve, a sanctuary where springbok, zebras, and black wildebeest roam freely. Nearby, the Soetdoring Nature Reserve and the Mangaung Bird Sanctuary are perfect for those who love to explore the outdoors, providing opportunities to observe a variety of birds and Bloemfontein Wildlife in their natural habitats.
What To Experience
Manguang Township
Hobbit Boutique Hotel
Oliewenhuis Art Museum
Naval Hill
Franklin Game Reserve
National Museum
Travel Guide for Bloemfontein
We Think You’ll Love
Bloemfontein Map and Geography
Bloemfontein sits right in the middle of South Africa and wears its title of the judicial capital proudly.
- Perched up high on a plateau, it's 1,395 meters above sea level in the Free State province.
- This spot is special because it combines city life with natural beauty.
- Right among the buildings, you can find the Franklin Game Reserve on Naval Hill, a place where you can see Bloemfontein Wildlife up close.
- The city itself is quite big, covering an area of 236.17 km², but if you look at the whole metropolitan area, it's even bigger, at 6,283.99 km².
- From the centre, where streets are neatly arranged, to the suburbs, which spread out more freely, Bloemfontein shows off its growth and importance.
Thanks to roads and railways, getting to other big cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town is easy, earning it the nickname 'Central South Africa'. This makes it a key spot for heading off to other South Africa Destinations.
Getting to Bloemfontein
Getting to Bloemfontein is straightforward and offers options for every type of traveller. Here are several ways to get to Bloemfontein:
Flying into Bloemfontein
Direct flights are available from major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban to Bloemfontein Airport. This is the quickest route to your destination.
Taking the Train
For those who enjoy scenic views, a train from Johannesburg to Bloemfontein takes about 7 hours, offering a peek into the beautiful countryside.
Riding the Bus
Buses from Johannesburg to Bloemfontein are a practical choice, with a journey time of around 5 hours and 20 minutes. It's a good balance between cost and convenience.
Driving Yourself
If you prefer the flexibility of stopping whenever you like, driving from Johannesburg on the N1 and N6 highways takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes. The drive is scenic and straightforward.
Choosing your mode of transportation to Bloemfontein depends on what you value most: quick arrival, scenic routes, affordability, or travel flexibility. Each option adds its unique touch to your South Africa Travel experience.
Bloemfontein Weather and Climate
Bloemfontein sits at a unique crossroads between the Highveld and the dry Karoo area. This leads to its distinct semi-arid weather. It also means you'll get plenty of sunshine whether you come in the hot summers or the cold, dry winters.
Here's what you might expect weather-wise:
Summer Time (December to February):
- Expect temperatures to swing from cool mornings at 59°F (15°C) up to warm afternoons at 88°F (31°C).
- Look forward to afternoon thunderstorms that cool things down.
Winter Season (June to August):
- It can get chilly, with temperatures ranging from a cold 28°F (-2°C) to a mild 63°F (17°C).
- The air tends to be dry, and frosty mornings are common.
When planning your Bloemfontein Travel, consider visiting in spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). The weather is gentler than, making it great for checking out the city.
If you do visit in summer, the thunderstorms can be quite refreshing, adding a dramatic backdrop to your Bloemfontein Tours.
Bloemfontein Festivals
Bloemfontein buzzes with energy and colour during its festival season, making it a must-visit for anyone on a South Africa Trip.
The city's festivals are a vibrant showcase of culture, art, and the community's spirit, reflecting the richness of life in this part of South Africa.
Some key Bloemfontein’s Festivals are as follows:
MACUFE (Mangaung African Cultural Festival)
Held over 10 days in either September or October, MACUFE is the highlight of Bloemfontein's cultural calendar.
It's a time when new artists and established performers come together to celebrate music, theatre, craft, and leisure, drawing crowds from across the globe.
Annual Festival of Roses
October in Bloemfontein smells sweetly of roses. This festival honours the city's garden heritage with events like rose exhibitions, the Champion Rose competition, and the Miss Rosebud contest. A tour of the city's best rose gardens is the perfect wrap-up to this floral celebration.
Bridal Expo
In summer, the Bridal Expo turns the spotlight on wedding planners. From designers and caterers to florists and photographers, it's all about showcasing talent and sharing tips on beauty and organization for the big day.
These festivals enrich the cultural landscape of Bloemfontein and offer a unique experience for visitors. Including these events in your Bloemfontein Travel plans is a fantastic way to experience the local culture and join in the celebration of this vibrant city's traditions.
Places to Visit in Bloemfontein
Bloemfontein is full of surprises waiting to be discovered. Here's a peek at some spots that you really shouldn't miss.
- National Museum
Step back in time with fascinating displays from across the globe, including a dinosaur skeleton and an immersive 19th-century street scene.
- Bloemfontein Zoo
Found inside the lovely King’s Park, this zoo not only has a great collection of animals but also over 4,000 rose bushes to admire.
- Oliewenhuis Art Museum
For a taste of modern African art, this is the place to be. It's a vibrant showcase of what's happening in the art world today.
- Franklin Game Reserve
Sitting atop Naval Hill, it offers a breathtaking view of the city below and a chance to spot some African wildlife.
- Free State Botanical Gardens
Wander through 70 hectares of plants, birds, and reptiles in a peaceful setting.
- Anglo Boer War Museum
Dive into the history of a crucial period with interesting exhibits from the Anglo-Boer War.
- Mangaung Township
A tour of this township gives you a real insight into the birthplace of the African National Congress party.
Adding these places to your Bloemfontein Tours will add depth to your trip and also leave you with lasting memories. It’s a chapter in your travel story filled with culture, nature, and history.
Things to Do in Bloemfontein
Bloemfontein is like a hidden gem in South Africa. It’s a place where travellers often stop but soon discover there's much to love. More than just being a pit stop, Bloemfontein is a city filled with beautiful spots and stories. Here are a few things that make a Bloemfontein visit special on any South Africa Trip.
Gardens and Old Buildings
- Don’t miss the city’s famous rose gardens—they’re why Bloemfontein is known as the city of roses.
- A walk down President Brand Street is like stepping into a history book, with all its grand old buildings.
Art and History
- Check out the Oliewenhuis Art Gallery for some amazing South African art in a unique spot.
- For a dose of history, the National Museum and the Anglo-Boer War Museum are packed with interesting finds.
Get Outside
- King's Park is perfect for a lazy picnic or a peaceful walk.
- If you’re into sports, catching a local rugby game is a must—it's a fun way to feel the local vibe.
Bloemfontein might not shout as loudly as some bigger cities, but it’s got its quiet charm that’s worth exploring.
With its lovely gardens, rich history, and fun outdoor activities, it’s a cosy corner of South Africa Travel you’ll be glad you didn’t skip.
Bloemfontein invites you to slow down and enjoy its treasures, adding a memorable stop to your South African journey.
Best Month to Visit Bloemfontein
We Think You’ll Love
Peak
Low
Mixed
Bloemfontein in January
January is the warmest month, ideal for those seeking the heat of summer in Bloemfontein. Days are regularly around 93.2°F (34°C), perfect for exploring the vibrant city and its surroundings. With minimal rain, outdoor activities and Bloemfontein Tours are highly enjoyable, offering a full experience of the city's natural and urban beauty.
Bloemfontein in February
February continues the warmth of summer in Bloemfontein with high temperatures making outdoor adventures pleasant. It’s a great time for visitors looking to explore the city’s wildlife and natural attractions under the clear, sunny skies, though it’s slightly cooler than January, making it more comfortable for some.
Bloemfontein in March
March marks the beginning of autumn in Bloemfontein, bringing more comfortable weather. The humidity drops, making it an ideal time for tourists to explore the city's attractions. It's a period when nature transforms, offering beautiful landscapes for Bloemfontein Travel.
Bloemfontein in April
April sees further cooling in Bloemfontein, with temperatures becoming more moderate. It's a fantastic time for outdoor activities without the extreme heat or cold, making it perfect for those looking to experience the best of South Africa Tours in a comfortable climate.
Bloemfontein in May
May is the tail end of autumn in Bloemfontein, offering mild and pleasant weather. It’s an excellent time for exploring the city's cultural and historical sites. The lower chance of rain ensures that your Bloemfontein Tours remain uninterrupted by weather changes.
Bloemfontein in June
The onset of winter in June brings cooler weather to Bloemfontein, ideal for visitors preferring cold over heat. It's a time when the city quiets down, offering a serene atmosphere for exploring. With few rainy days, outdoor activities and wildlife sightings are still enjoyable.
Bloemfontein in July
July is winter in Bloemfontein, characterised by cold but comfortable weather. It's a period with the least precipitation, making it suitable for those looking to explore the city's indoor attractions or enjoy the winter landscapes on Bloemfontein Tours.
Bloemfontein in August
August sees the end of winter with still low chances of precipitation, offering clear days perfect for outdoor explorations. The city begins to warm up, making it a good time for travellers to enjoy both the urban and natural beauty of Bloemfontein.
Bloemfontein in September
Spring arrives in September, bringing warmer temperatures and a revival of natural beauty. It's one of the busiest times for tourism, with visitors coming to see the blossoming landscapes and enjoy the favourable weather for all types of Bloemfontein Travel experiences.
Bloemfontein in October
October offers very comfortable weather conditions in Bloemfontein, ideal for exploring the great outdoors. The city's flora starts to bloom, creating picturesque settings for tourists. It’s a month with comfortable humidity levels, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Bloemfontein in November
With spring in full swing by November, Bloemfontein becomes a vibrant hub for tourists. The weather is very nice, making it perfect for South Africa Safari trips and city tours. Outdoor activities are particularly enjoyable before the summer heat sets in.
Bloemfontein in December
December welcomes the summer with warm temperatures, though it’s marked by a higher chance of rain. Despite being the least crowded month for tourism, it offers unique opportunities for those willing to experience Bloemfontein’s summer beauty and wildlife, making it a hidden gem for Bloemfontein Travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
We Think You’ll Love
Bloemfontein, known as the city of roses, is not only famous for its floral beauty but also as the judicial capital of South Africa.
- One intriguing fact is that it is the birthplace of J.R.R. Tolkien, the renowned author of "The Lord of the Rings."
- Another is that it houses the Naval Hill Planetarium, the first digital planetarium in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Additionally, Bloemfontein is a hub for South Africa Safari experiences, offering close encounters with wildlife in nearby game reserves.
Bloemfontein is popular for its significant role in South Africa's legal system, serving as the judicial capital. It's also celebrated for its abundant rose gardens that host an annual rose festival.
Furthermore, the city is a gateway to exploring the rich Bloemfontein Wildlife, making it a favourite starting point for nature and animal enthusiasts looking to experience the diverse ecosystems of South Africa.
Bloemfontein stands out for its harmonious mix of historical charm and natural beauty. It's special because it embodies the peaceful coexistence of urban development and natural landscapes.
The city is also renowned for nurturing prominent figures like J.R.R. Tolkien. Its unique appeal is enriched by offering memorable Bloemfontein Tours that showcase its rich cultural heritage and scenic wildlife surroundings.
Bloemfontein is situated in the centre of South Africa and serves as the capital city of the Free State Province.
Its central location makes it a strategic point for connecting various South African destinations, providing an ideal stopover for travellers exploring the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage sites scattered across the country.
Tourists in Bloemfontein can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the Free State National Botanical Garden, which showcases the region's flora, to visiting the Oliewenhuis Art Museum.
Adventure seekers can indulge in hiking at Naval Hill or enjoy wildlife safaris nearby. The city offers enriching South African excursions that cater to both history buffs and nature lovers alike.
One can reach Bloemfontein from Johannesburg by road, which takes about 4 hours, making it a scenic drive through the South African landscape.
Alternatively, there are regular flights connecting Johannesburg to Bloemfontein, offering a quicker travel option for those looking to maximize their South Africa Trip.
This connectivity allows travellers to easily incorporate Bloemfontein into their South African itinerary.
Bloemfontein offers a wide range of accommodation options, catering to different preferences and budgets.
From South Africa Luxury Safari lodges on the outskirts of the city, providing immersive wildlife experiences, to comfortable city hotels and quaint guesthouses, there are plenty of options for staying in Bloemfontein.
The Best Time to Visit Bloemfontein is during the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) months. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
We are thrilled to help you plan your perfect safari holiday
We'd be delighted to help you with any questions you have about properties & safaris. Please fill in the form below so that we can help you create your perfect safari holiday.
Or
Contact Us
Feel free to give us a call or send us an e-mail:
Start Planning Your Tailored African Safari
Expert Safari Knowledge
With decades of expertise, we're your trusted safari guides, ensuring every moment exceeds your expectations.
Tailor-made African Safaris
Tailored to your preferences, our African Safaris guarantee an adventure perfectly suited to your desires.
Long-term Relationships
Our enduring partnerships across Africa provide exclusive access and authentic experiences.
Carefree Travel
Leave your worries behind and accept carefree travel with Falcon Safaris, where every detail is handled to perfection.
Our Travelers Say
We travelled with Falcon Safaris in Zimbabwe and Botswana for 16 days. Falcon designed a wonderful trip with private guide to the most interesting sites in both countries. The organization of the whole trip was excellent, flights within the country, accommodation and activites. The guides were very knowledgable and told us a lot about the countries, their history, people, economy and much more. We visited the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the Victoria Falls Tour and a number of national parks in both countries.
Rhino tracking was a real adventure! We had tremendous further game drives and saw very many animals - we did the Big Five. We had much more Victoria Falls Activities than planned and enjoyed very much.We strongly recommend Falcon Safaris to everyone planning a trip to Southern Africa and East Africa.
Wonderful trip to Zimbabwe and Botswana with excellent organization and very competent guides
Our Consultant Vimbai was very helpful and accommodating. We stayed at the Elephant hills hotel which was nothing short of amazing.Our activities included a helicopter flight, dinner cruise as well as a morning game drive. All the activities were absolutely amazing.
Exceptional!
We worked with Gertrude to schedule and organize everything and she did an excellent job. I asked a lot of questions via e-mail and she answered everyone in a timely helpful manner. Our guide at Victoria Falls was also great. He met us at the airport, provided a thoughtful tour of the Falls and got us to our next guide in Botswana. Our lodgings at River View Lodge were just as described- very comfortable and excellent food. All the staff were so pleasant and helpful. If I had to do it again I would arrange a morning boat ride as well. We only did the sunset boat rides and they were the high point of our entire trip- we saw so many animals and our guide was very knowledgeable. Just a great experience. Our lodgings at Oddball's Enclave was rustic and we loved it. So great to disconnect from the world for a bit. Leo, our guide, was the best - got us out and about, saw fantastic wildlife and got back to camp safely each time. Doc manages the camp so well. This whole trip was planned and organized by Falcon Safaris and we could not have been happier.
Fabulous, well planned trip
Falcon safaris have given my the correct advice with excellent service. The only suggestion will be to work closer with the lodges to confirm bookings as soon as possible. We have booked and pay our deposit a year in advance. We have only receive our final convermation from Chobe Safari lodge a week before departure. I do realize its not within your controle but with limit alternatives and a group of 14 people it becomes an issue to find alternative accomodation if the booking was cancelled.
Excellent and efficient service
Explore Our Africa With Customize Your Tour
We love Africa's diversity and create amazing trips for you. With 30+ years of experience, we customize every trip just for you.